Devon golf trip guide, championship courses without the championship crowds

Devon has two of England's most respected links courses within thirty minutes of each other, which is a strange thing for a region that does not get talked about as much as it should.

Saunton Golf Club

Saunton's East Course sits on genuinely spectacular dune land, and it is the kind of course that gets ranked highly by people who have played everywhere. Book it as the centrepiece round of the trip and build the rest of the schedule around it, not the other way round.

Royal North Devon

The oldest links course in England, and it plays like it, in the best sense. Firm, quirky, occasionally blind, and a genuine change of pace from the more manicured championship layouts most groups are used to. Worth a round for the history alone, worth a second look for the golf.

Thurlestone

Further south, on the coast near Salcombe, Thurlestone is the quieter option on this list and a good third round for a trip that has already had two demanding days. Clifftop holes, a shorter walk between them, and a clubhouse that does not rush you out the door.

How to structure three rounds in Devon

Saunton first, while the group is fresh. Royal North Devon second, since it rewards patience more than power. Thurlestone last, as the easier close to a trip that has already delivered its two hardest tests.